For the first time in water polo history, the Men’s and Women’s Champions League Final Fours will take place together — in the same city, at the same venue, and within the same week. From 10–13 June 2026, Malta’s Tal-Qroqq Complex will become the centre of European club water polo as the continent’s best teams gather for an unprecedented double finale.
This landmark decision marks a major step forward for the sport. While Malta successfully hosted the last two editions of the men’s finals, the inclusion of the Women’s Final Four — officially approved only last weekend — elevates the event to a new level of visibility, prestige, and unity.
European Aquatics First Vice-President Josip Varvodić was in Malta to sign the hosting agreement alongside Clifton Grima, Malta’s Minister for Education, Sport and Youth, and Karl Izzo, President of the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta.
A First for Water Polo — and for Team Sports
Never before have the men’s and women’s finals been staged side-by-side. It’s a concept that even major team sports have yet to adopt, and European Aquatics’ move is being viewed as a bold, progressive statement — one that elevates the women’s competition and delivers a truly unified celebration of elite water polo.
“We are glad that the Government of Malta and the ASA of Malta agreed to support our intention to bring the promotion of our top club competitions to a new dimension,” Mr Varvodić said. “With this, we also give a tremendous boost to the attention women’s water polo enjoys nowadays. Handing over the two most coveted trophies within 24 hours on the same stage is something every water polo fan wants to see, and together with our Maltese hosts we can offer these unforgettable moments for fans across Europe and around the world this coming June.”
A Four-Day Spectacle in Tal-Qroqq
The action begins on 10 June, when the women’s semi-finals set the opening tone. The men’s semi-finals follow on 11 June, creating a seamless build-up to back-to-back finals:
- 12 June – Women’s Champions League Final
- 13 June – Men’s Champions League Final (preceded by the bronze-medal match)
With two European champions crowned within 24 hours on the same stage, the 2026 edition promises to be one of the most memorable Champions League conclusions in history.
Malta, already well-regarded for its passionate water polo culture and successful hosting record, is preparing to deliver a world-class event — and the global water polo community will be watching.
Read more about the water polo Champions League
Read more about women’s water polo
Follow Waterpolo 360 on Facebook, Instagram and X